NHFC Expands Home-Loan Access for Assure Group Clients
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National Housing Finance Expands Home‑Loan Options for Assure Group Clients
The Daily Star, 12 November 2024
In a move that is set to make homeownership more accessible for thousands of Bangladeshis, National Housing Finance Company (NHFC) has announced a new partnership with the Assure Group, a leading provider of financial services. Under the agreement, NHFC will offer its range of affordable home‑loan products to clients of the Assure Group, leveraging the Group’s extensive customer base and distribution network. The initiative is part of NHFC’s broader strategy to deepen market penetration and to support the national housing agenda set by the Ministry of Housing and Public Works.
Why NHFC and Assure Group?
NHFC is a government‑backed entity that specialises in providing long‑term, low‑interest financing for residential properties. Its flagship product, the “NHFC Affordable Home Loan”, has long been praised for its competitive rates and flexible tenure options. Meanwhile, the Assure Group—known for its insurance, banking, and real‑estate advisory services—has a wide reach across both urban and rural markets, with a customer base that includes many first‑time home buyers and families looking for better housing options.
The partnership was formally announced at a press conference held in Dhaka, attended by NHFC’s Managing Director, Mr. Shahidul Haque, and Assure Group’s CEO, Ms. Farzana Karim. “By combining NHFC’s financial expertise with Assure Group’s client‑centric approach, we are creating a seamless pathway for people to secure financing for their dream homes,” Mr. Haque said. “Our goal is to make home loans more affordable and accessible, especially for the lower‑ and middle‑income segments.”
Key Features of the New Loan Product
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Loan Amount | Up to 75% of the property value |
| Interest Rate | Fixed rates ranging from 7.5% to 9.5% per annum, depending on tenure and client profile |
| Tenure | 10 to 25 years, with a 5‑year interest‑free period for first‑time buyers |
| Eligibility | Annual income above BDT 300,000, a credit score of 600 or higher, and property value not exceeding BDT 20 million |
| Processing Time | 5–7 business days once all documentation is submitted |
| Additional Benefits | Pre‑payment option without penalty, eligibility for government subsidy schemes, and a dedicated hotline for loan servicing |
The loan package is designed to cater specifically to the needs of Assure Group’s clients, offering lower down‑payment requirements and streamlined application processes. A digital portal—accessible through the Assure Group’s website—will allow applicants to submit documents, track status, and receive instant credit decisions.
Impact on the Housing Market
Housing analysts see this collaboration as a potential catalyst for increased home‑ownership rates in Bangladesh. According to a recent report by the Bangladesh Institute of Housing, the average cost of a modest single‑family home has risen by 12% over the past three years, outpacing wage growth. By offering loans at rates lower than many private lenders and integrating them into a widely used client platform, NHFC and Assure Group aim to reverse this trend.
Dr. Ayesha Rahman, a senior researcher at the institute, notes: “If the partnership succeeds, it could unlock significant demand for new housing units, encouraging developers to build more affordable homes and creating a virtuous cycle of growth.”
How to Apply
Interested clients can begin the application process in one of the following ways:
- Online Portal – Visit the Assure Group’s dedicated home‑loan section (link provided in the article) and fill out the pre‑qualification questionnaire.
- Assure Group Branches – Go to any of the Group’s 300+ service points across the country for face‑to‑face assistance.
- NHFC Centers – Local NHFC offices accept applications directly, but the partnership streamlines the paperwork for those who have already engaged with Assure Group.
Applicants will need to provide proof of income, a copy of the property title, a recent credit report, and a notarised application form. NHFC’s streamlined KYC process, which is highlighted in the article, allows for a quick verification of documents.
Follow‑up Links for More Information
- NHFC Home Loan Product Overview – The article includes a link to NHFC’s official product page, where detailed brochures, FAQ sections, and downloadable loan agreements can be found.
- Assure Group Corporate Profile – Readers are directed to the Group’s corporate site, which outlines its broader portfolio of services, including insurance, mutual funds, and digital banking solutions.
- Government Housing Policy – A link to the Ministry of Housing’s latest policy brief offers context on the national housing strategy, including subsidies and tax incentives for first‑time buyers.
Final Thoughts
The collaboration between NHFC and the Assure Group signals a strategic shift in Bangladesh’s housing finance landscape, where public‑sector backing meets private‑sector reach. By aligning its affordable loan products with a trusted consumer network, NHFC hopes to democratise homeownership and stimulate the domestic real‑estate market. As the rollout progresses, stakeholders will be watching closely to gauge how effectively this partnership can bridge the gap between affordability and demand.
For further updates, follow The Daily Star’s business section and stay tuned for detailed case studies on early adopters of the new loan program.
Read the Full The Daily Star Article at:
[ https://www.thedailystar.net/business/organisation-news/news/national-housing-finance-provides-home-loan-facilities-assure-group-clients-4037156 ]